As the first ever paved road in Boulder, Pearl Street has always been the main thoroughfare of downtown commerce. In 1976, the Pearl Street Mall was officially opened after years of planning, building, and preserving historic architecture along this pedestrian promenade.
Also known as the Downtown Boulder Mall, today this area is a tourist hotspot alive with activity. Musicians play along the brick-paved pedestrian stretch of Pearl Street, between 11th and 15th Streets. Wine glasses and coffee mugs clink from sidewalk cafes. Craft fairs, farmer’s markets, and other seasonal events make the atmosphere here festive all year long.
Stores
And that’s just what’s going on outside along Pearl Street Mall. Visitors taking in the retail shops and restaurants will have hundreds of options in the downtown area on and surrounding the promenade. Additional districts bordering Pearl Street Mall with great shopping include the East End, the West End, and the 15th Street Design District for home design and decor.
Retail shops at Pearl Street Mall are a diverse collection of boutiques, many of them local to Boulder. Fashion designers, art galleries, bookstores, gift shops — it’s hard to imagine you could want for anything beyond what Pearl Street has to offer.
Some standouts include John Atencio (jewelry designs from a Colorado native), Art + Soul Gallery, Boulder Book Store, and El Loro Jewelry & Gifts.
Restaurants
Dining along Pearl Street Mall caters to every palette. From wood-fired burgers (OAK at Fourteenth) and plant-based cuisine (Leaf Vegetarian Restaurant), to bakeries (Spruce Confections) and tea houses (Ku Cha House of Tea), you’ll never leave Pearl Street hungry or parched.
If you’re craving a pale ale and some live music, head for Oskar Blues Taproom. Did you get to Pearl Street before the shops opened? Nestle in at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery for an energizing breakfast for all the shopping ahead.
Parking
The Pearl Street pedestrian mall in Boulder runs between 11th and 15th Streets, on Pearl. From Denver or heading east toward Boulder, take 1-25 north onto Highway 36 into Boulder, where it turns into 28th Street.
Take 28th Street to Pearl Street. Heading west on I-70, take the I-270 North exit toward Fort Collins, then the Boulder/Hwy 36 exit to 28th Street, and then Pearl. Watch for metered parking and parking garages along the blocks surrounding Pearl Street Mall.
Details
Address: 1942 Broadway #301, Boulder, CO 80302
Phone: 303-449-3774
Season: Year-round
Website: boulderdowntown.com
